2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1993 BMW 316
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1993 BMW 316. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW 316 weights approximately 730 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1993 BMW 316 (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1993 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | 316 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
